BEFORE.
For more than 20 years, Scott and Margaret Johnson, retired owners of a DC marketing firm, spent weekends and downtime at their waterfront getaway on Kent Island. But after sheltering there during covid, the couple decided to make it their permanent home.
The Johnsons recently completed a total overhaul of the 1952 rancher’s cramped, outdated kitchen. They tapped Nadia Subaran and Kelly Emerson of Aidan Design to reimagine the space. Among their goals: to maximize views of the Chesapeake, increase storage and create a bar/serving area for parties. They also wanted to display sculptures and objects collected over the years.
A clever redo combined the kitchen and adjacent mudroom—which previously housed the fridge—and traded a bulky boiler and hot water heater for a tankless water system. These moves made way for a spacious and functional kitchen where the owners can cook and entertain in casual, easygoing style.
Facing walls of Wood-Mode cabinetry dramatically increased storage potential. On one side, narrow cabinets store extra sets of china, cookbooks and barware while a microwave stationed near the fridge adds convenience. In lieu of the wall that once blocked the view, a low peninsula divides the kitchen and dining area; on the dining side, it features a bar/serving zone with an under-counter refrigerator.
The Johnsons are thrilled with their bright, stylish new kitchen. “More than a kitchen renovation, this project is a beautiful extension of their living spaces,” notes Subaran. “We designed it so each cooking and entertaining experience brings inspiration, comfort and happiness.”
Kitchen Design: Nadia Subaran, principal; Kelly Emerson, senior designer, Aidan Design, Silver Spring, Maryland. Contractor: Edgar Navarro, Glenn Dale, Maryland. Appliances: ABW.